INDIVIDUAL BACKPACKS:

It can be fairly simple to gather a “Go Pack.” One is needed for each member of your household: each adult, each child, each pet. Remember, someone must carry each pack, so watch the weight and plan accordingly. Put those Go Packs in a handy place, like the coat-closet near the door or a locked dock-box on the back porch or deck.

First Aid Kit: a simple, compact package containing antibacterial wipes, band aids, antibiotic ointment, aspirin, gauze, and tape as space allows.

Pair of Glasses/Contacts: put the date inside the case so you can replace with newer prescriptions when possible.

Change of Clothing: simple items that suit for a variety of weather conditions.

Sanitary Supplies: as appropriate and only a short-term supply.

Electronics: a flashlight (perhaps rechargeable), a phone charger, an iPad with charger

LAST - MINUTE POUCH

(bright colored or otherwise notable): put a reminder card inside listing:

Keys

Credit cards

Cash

Identification: Driver’s License, Passport. Vaccination Card(s)

Blanket, preferably a thin-but-warm variety, such as a

“Space Blanket.”

Contacts and Financial Lists, if appropriate. (You may not want the financial list in a child or pet’s backpack.)

List of Medications, if necessary for health. Your doctors might be willing to provide an undated prescription to include with the list for filling in an emergency evacuation. Include the pharmacies and phone numbers where these prescriptions are filled. If you pack actual medications, be sure to cycle the meds out and fresh doses into your pack.

You’ll refer to that little list and toss these important day-to-day necessities into that pouch just before leaving your home. If you have a wallet with all these items inside, make sure the pouch is large enough to hold that wallet. You may not have room or strength to hold onto a purse as well as that backpack, so rely on the backpack for all the essentials. If you must discard something as you go, it won’t be the backpack.

Food & Water: As space and weight permit, include canned and soft-packaged edibles, such as energy bars and tuna packages, and some water. You’ll see what you have room for and can carry.

Personal Toiletries: as space allows—a small toothbrush and toothpaste, a comb and brush, a razor, small package of fresh wipes or similar cleaning product.